By Times Reporter –
THE Zambia International Trade Fair (ZITF) has projected to raise at least K7 million from this year’s event, as the number of foreign participants has risen from 12 to 17 countries.
The ZITF is also expecting the turnout to rise from last year’s 90,000 to 100,000 show-goers this year. The gates will open to the public tomorrow.
ZITF Board chairperson Emmanuel Hachipuka was confident the board would reach the target because of the massive facelift given to the show arena and adequate preparations.
“We are ready as you can see the works are progressing very well, the roads this year, which have been one of the major outcries of the exhibitors and the show-goers, are okay and the issue of dust has been addressed very adequately,’’ Mr Hachipuka said.
He urged all those who still doubted to change their mind and join in the event as he assured this year’s show would surpass the previous events.
Copperbelt Permanent Secretary Howard Sikwela, who was also inspecting the preparations in the showground, said he was satisfied with the preparations and assured of increased turnout following the adequate preparations.
“This year’s show will be superb. We expect a better turnout. All those from Ndola, Copperbelt and international exhibitors, come and see what we have prepared. Come and sell your goods here. This year, the show is wonderful,“ Reverend Sikwela said.
The media was also encouraged to cover the event adequately.
ZITF general manager Alex Mayeya said the ticket sales had been spread to Zampost and other selling points.
He said the VIP, adult and junior badges would cost K250, K150 and K75, respectively, while the daily tickets were being sold for K20.
Mr Mayeya promised more entertainment at the show.
Last year, 453 exhibitors took part, but Mr Mayeya said this year, foreign exhibitors had risen from 12 to 17 countries.
ZITF is still capturing some late entries, which could shoot to a bigger number.
Last year, the ZITF Board was carpeted for shoddy preparations, including the dusty environment, but an on-the-spot check at the showground found roads being worked on.
